SHAVING THE ARMPIT AND PUBIS OF A PSYCHIATRIC PATIENT

REQUIREMENTS #

1. A clean tray containing:
   1. Shaving device (Electronic/Disposable)
   2. Razor/ Scissors
   3. Soap in a dish
   4. Cotton wool swabs
   5. Sterile gauze
   6. A jar of water
   7. Gallipot
   8. Receiver for used sharps/swab
   9. Protective material
   10. Gloves
   11. After-shave lotion/talcum powder
   12. Antiseptic lotion
2. Screen

STEPS #

1. Establish rapport (refer procedure)
2. Explain procedure to patient
3. Determine the patient’s usual shaving routine
4. Gather the patient’s preferred equipment taking into consideration any potential hazards
5. Set and send tray to the bedside/appropriate place for the procedure
6. Provide privacy and assist patient to assume an appropriate position
7. Protect patient’s bed and clothing and expose only the part to be shaved at a particular time
8. Lather armpit/pubic area with shaving cream or soap according to patient’s preference
9. Shave armpit/pubic area with shaving device from top to down using short strokes, beginning from one armpit followed by the other and then the pubic area
10. Use the hand without the shaving device to hold the skin below the area being shaved
11. Rinse the shaving device after each stroke as appropriate
12. Change water after shaving each area
13. Rinse and dry the armpit/pubic area when done
14. Apply the patient’s choice of after-shave lotion/talcum powder
15. Express appreciation to patient and direct him/her to the next activity
16. Clear the tray, disinfect used items and perform hand hygiene
17. Document procedure and any observations made in the nurses’ note/patient’s folder